Schools are missing out on millions of pounds because of the huge cost of arson attacks, according to shocking new figures.

A report by the Arson Prevention Bureau found last year deliberately-started fires in schools cost an estimated &#xA3;56m.

It comes as statistics published by the Government show that in 2000, there were 49 malicious fires in schools in the region, up from 37 the year before.

Staff and pupils in the region have suffered from a series of attacks in the last 12 months which have caused major disruption and upset.

More than &#xA3;1m damage was caused to the Hermitage School, in Chester-le-Street, when fire ripped through it in November.

Last month, part of Hedworthfield Primary School, in Jarrow, was damaged when rubbish piled up against the school was set alight. Two classrooms in the junior department and language unit were wrecked in the blaze and other areas were damaged by smoke.

It meant some of the pupils missed a day of school and headteacher Teresa Lawton estimates it has cost more than &#xA3;60,000.

She said: "It was absolutely devastating. A lot of things were lost which can't be replaced like the children's work.

"You just despair really. It's so mindless. I don't think these people realise what effect it has on the children.

"You have got to look towards the positive and people have been very supportive to help.

"Parents and the LEA have worked very hard and we are trying to replace the books and equipment that have been lost."

Following the incident when &#xA3;1m of damage was caused when fire ripped through the Hermitage school in Chester-le-Street, a 16-year-old pleaded guilty to arson and a 17-year-old pleaded guilty to burglary.

Both cases have been adjourned for sentencing.

The figures from the Arson Prevention Bureau showed a rise of 30 per cent in the last five years in the cost of arson to schools.

At the end of last month, the Department for Transport, Local Government and the Regions published fire statistics for 2000.

It showed there were 12 malicious fires in schools in Durham, four in Northumberland and 33 in Tyne & Wear. Figures for 1999 were 10 in Durham, four in Northumberland and 23 in Tyne & Wear.

A spokesman for Tyne & Wear fire brigade said it visits schools every year to talk about fire safety advice and information.